How Do You Spell MOTHER?

Pronunciation: [mˈʌðə] (IPA)

The word "mother" is spelled as mʌðər in IPA phonetic transcription. The first sound is the vowel /ʌ/ which is an open-mid back unrounded vowel. The /ð/ sound is voiced dental fricative sound produced by placing the tongue between the upper and lower teeth, and the /ə/ sound represents the unstressed schwa vowel. Together, these sounds create the phonetic representation of "mother". This word is spelled in Standard English using the letters 'm', 'o', 't', 'h', 'e', 'r'.

MOTHER Meaning and Definition

  1. Mother is a noun that refers to a female parent or a person who gives birth to or raises a child. It encompasses the role and responsibilities of nurturing and caring for a child from infancy to adulthood. The term is also broadly used to describe a person who provides love, support, and guidance in a parental relationship.

    Mothers play a pivotal and profound role in the development of their children. They are often associated with unconditional love and selflessness, and are known to provide emotional, physical, and psychological support. Mothers are typically the primary caregivers, providing nourishment, protection, and a sense of security.

    Furthermore, the term "mother" transcends biological relationships, as it can be used to describe anyone who takes on the maternal role. This can include adopted mothers, stepmothers, foster mothers, or guardians who provide the necessary care and love for a child. The definition of a mother extends beyond the act of giving birth, encompassing the overall nurturing nature of the role.

    The significance of a mother extends far beyond the immediate family, as their influence often shapes the values, beliefs, and character of their children. They are instrumental in shaping a child's development and preparing them for the complexities of life. In many cultures, mothers are highly revered and celebrated, with special occasions such as Mother's Day dedicated to honoring their contributions and expressing gratitude for their love and sacrifice.

  2. • 1. The female parent. 2. Any cell or other structure from which other similar bodies are formed.
    • A stringy sediment in vinegar, the fungus of acetous fermentation, Mycoderma aceti.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. • A woman that has borne offspring; a female parent; that which has produced anything; that which is oldest and chief; a familiar term of address to an elderly woman; the dregs from certain liquids, as vinegar.
    • Native; natural; received from parents or ancestors.
    • To adopt or ascribe to, as a son or daughter.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for MOTHER *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for MOTHER

Etymology of MOTHER

The word "mother" has an Old English origin and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "mōdēr" or "mōdar". This term is also found in other Germanic languages like German "Mutter" and Old Norse "moðir". These languages ultimately derived the word from the Proto-Indo-European root "*méh₂tēr".

It is important to note that the word "mother" has cognates in various languages such as Latin "mater", Greek "mētēr", Sanskrit "mātṛ", and Persian "madar". The Proto-Indo-European root "*méh₂tēr" serves as the common origin for these related words.

Idioms with the word MOTHER

  • dog’s mother The idiom "dog's mother" refers to a person's real or biological mother. It is often used as a humorous or sarcastic way to indicate that someone is searching for their mother or making inquiries about her.
  • Like mother, like daughter. The idiom "Like mother, like daughter" means that daughters often possess similar qualities, characteristics, or traits as their mothers. It implies that daughters tend to inherit or display similar behaviors, interests, or personalities to that of their mothers.
  • you kiss your mother with that mouth? The idiom "you kiss your mother with that mouth?" is typically used as a rhetorical question to express shock, disapproval, or offense at someone's use of foul or vulgar language. It implies that the person's words are inappropriate or disrespectful, and suggests that such language is not suitable for speaking to or in the presence of one's mother, who is often associated with more refined or polite behavior.
  • Shall I be mother? The idiom "Shall I be mother?" is a traditional British expression used when one person offers to pour and serve tea to others. It is often employed humorously or in a lighthearted manner during tea-drinking occasions, implying that the speaker will take on the role of serving as the "mother" or the one responsible for taking care of everyone's tea needs.
  • sweet Mary, mother of God The idiom "sweet Mary, mother of God" is an exclamation or expletive that is used to express surprise, astonishment, or disbelief. It is typically used when something unexpected or extraordinary happens, similar to other exclamations such as "oh my God" or "holy cow". The phrase refers to the mother of Jesus in the Christian tradition, Mary, and is used as a way to invoke a religious figure while expressing one's emotions.
  • mother lode The idiom "mother lode" refers to a rich or abundant source or supply of something valuable or valuable resource. It originates from the mining industry, particularly during the Gold Rush era, where it referred to the main vein or deposit of gold or precious minerals found within a mine. The term has since been used figuratively to describe any discovery or acquisition of a substantial amount of something valuable or highly prized.
  • face only a mother could love The idiom "face only a mother could love" is used to describe someone or something with unattractive physical features or characteristics that may not be generally considered appealing. It implies that the person or thing in question is only loved and appreciated by their own mother due to the unconditional love and bias a mother may have towards her child.
  • face (that) only a mother could love The idiom "face (that) only a mother could love" refers to someone's physical appearance, suggesting that their appearance is not considered attractive or appealing by others, except for their own mother who may have an unconditional love and support for them despite their looks.
  • experience is the mother of wisdom The idiom "experience is the mother of wisdom" means that one becomes wiser and gains knowledge through firsthand experiences and the lessons learned from them. It suggests that by going through various life situations and challenges, a person acquires valuable understanding and judgment, leading to greater wisdom and insight.
  • a mother lode of sth The idiom "a mother lode of sth" refers to a large or abundant supply of something valuable or highly desirable. It is often used to describe a discovery or source that yields an extraordinary amount or quality of a particular item or resource. The phrase originated from mining, where a mother lode referred to a rich vein of ore in a mine that promises substantial output.
  • (Holy) Mother of God The idiom "(Holy) Mother of God" is an exclamation or an interjection used to express surprise, shock, or awe. It is often used to emphasize the intensity of emotions or the magnitude of a situation or event. It is derived from the reverence given to the mother of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith.
  • old enough to be mother The idiom "old enough to be mother" refers to someone who is mature or experienced enough to act as a mother figure, providing guidance, support, or advice to others. It implies that the person possesses the knowledge, wisdom, and nurturing qualities associated with motherhood.
  • a mother hen The idiom "a mother hen" refers to someone, usually a woman, who is extremely protective and caring towards others, particularly towards their loved ones or those they are responsible for. This person tends to be very attentive, nurturing, and always concerned about the well-being and safety of those around them.
  • He that would the daughter win, must with the mother first begin. The idiom "He that would the daughter win, must with the mother first begin" implies that if someone wants to pursue a romantic relationship with a person, they must first gain the approval and acceptance of their family or those close to them.
  • old enough to be sm's mother The idiom "old enough to be sm's mother" refers to a significant age difference between two individuals, where one person is much older than the other, to the point that the older person could have conceivably been the parent of the younger person. This expression is often used to highlight a substantial generation gap or to emphasize the maturity and experience disparity between the two individuals involved.
  • Mother Nature The idiom "Mother Nature" refers to the concept or personification of nature as a nurturing and powerful force that encompasses all living and non-living elements of the natural world. It is often used to describe the inherent qualities and behavior of the natural environment, which can be both unpredictable and beautiful at the same time.
  • everyone and their mother The idiom "everyone and their mother" is used to exaggerate or emphasize the large number of people who possess or are doing something. It suggests that almost everyone included is involved or interested in the matter being discussed.
  • Diligence is the mother of good luck. The idiom "Diligence is the mother of good luck" means that hard work, perseverance, and consistent effort are the key factors in achieving success and favorable outcomes. It suggests that luck or fortunate circumstances are more likely to occur to those who work diligently and put in the necessary time and effort towards their goals.
  • an earth mother The idiom "an earth mother" is used to describe a woman who is nurturing, down-to-earth, and deeply connected to nature and the world around her. She is often associated with holistic living, environmental concerns, and a strong sense of spiritual connectedness. This term is typically used in a positive context to describe someone who embodies a natural and nurturing approach to life.
  • the child/house/mother, etc. from hell The idiom "the child/house/mother, etc. from hell" is typically used to describe an exceptionally difficult or challenging individual or situation. It suggests that the person or thing being referred to is highly troublesome, causing constant problems or stress. The use of "from hell" emphasizes the extreme nature of the difficulty, likening it to something that may be associated with the depths of hell or unbearable circumstances.
  • necessity is the mother of invention The idiom "necessity is the mother of invention" means that when there is a pressing need or a problem to be solved, people are motivated to find a solution or create something innovative to meet that need. It suggests that creative solutions or inventions often arise from urgent or essential circumstances.
  • everybody and their mother The idiom "everybody and their mother" is a colloquial expression used to emphasize the idea of a large number of people or things, often in a slightly exaggerated or hyperbolic manner. It implies that a significant amount or almost everyone is involved or present.
  • earth mother The idiom "earth mother" typically refers to a person, usually a woman, who is seen as nurturing, caring, and connected to nature. This term usually signifies a person who is deeply compassionate, protective, and supportive, similar to the way the Earth provides sustenance and life to all beings.
  • everybody and his mother The idiom "everybody and his mother" is used to refer to a large number of people, often in a figurative sense. It signifies that a significant or overwhelming majority of individuals are involved or interested in a particular situation or event. It is typically used to emphasize the widespread nature of a certain occurrence or the high level of participation from various individuals.
  • the mother of all The idiom "the mother of all" is commonly used to describe something that is the largest, most significant, or most extreme example of a particular thing. It typically implies that the thing being referred to is unmatched in terms of size, influence, or importance. The phrase "the mother of all" often indicates that what follows is the epitome or ultimate version of something.
  • and his mother The idiom "and his mother" is used to sarcastically or dismissively convey that someone is exceptionally skilled or knowledgeable in a particular area or task. It implies that the person's expertise is so remarkable that it surpasses even the expertise of their own mother, who is typically believed to possess great wisdom and knowledge.
  • everyone and his mother The idiom "everyone and his mother" is an expression used to emphasize that a large number of people, possibly even an excessive amount, are involved in or have knowledge of a particular situation or event. It implies that practically everyone, including even the least expected individuals, is aware or taking part in something.
  • old enough to be someone's mother The idiom "old enough to be someone's mother" is used to convey that a person is significantly older than another individual, often to emphasize a significant age difference between two people.
  • the mother of all sth The idiom "the mother of all something" is used to emphasize the extreme or largest example of a particular thing or event. It suggests that the thing being referred to is the most significant, important, or powerful of its kind. The term "mother" here is used metaphorically to denote the magnitude or supremacy of something.
  • expectant mother The idiom "expectant mother" refers to a woman who is pregnant and eagerly awaiting the birth of her child.
  • Mother Carey is plucking her chickens
  • tied to your mother's/wife's apron strings This idiom refers to someone, usually a man, who is overly dependent on their mother or wife for guidance, support, or decision-making. It suggests a lack of independence or autonomy in their actions and decisions.
  • tied to one's mother's apron strings The idiom "tied to one's mother's apron strings" is used to describe someone, usually an adult, who is overly dependent on their mother or is unwilling to break free from their mother's influence or control. It suggests that the person lacks independence and is unable to make decisions or take actions on their own.
  • a mummy's/mother's boy A mummy's/mother's boy is a man who is excessively dependent on, or attached to, his mother, often seeking her approval and guidance in all aspects of his life.
  • old enough to be somebody’s father/mother The idiom "old enough to be somebody’s father/mother" is used to describe a significant age difference between two individuals, where one person is much older than the other and could feasibly be their parent.
  • tied to mother's apron strings The idiom "tied to mother's apron strings" refers to someone, typically a child or a dependent person, who is excessively reliant on their mother for support, guidance, or decision-making, and is unable to function independently.
  • tied to his mother's apron strings This idiom is used to describe someone, usually a man, who is overly dependent on his mother and unable to function independently. It suggests that he is figuratively tied to his mother's apron strings, unable to break free and make decisions for himself.
  • at (one's) mother's knee The idiom "at (one's) mother's knee" refers to learning something or acquiring knowledge or values from one's mother while growing up or being young. It can also imply being influenced by one's mother or being close to her.
  • swear on (one's) mother's grave To swear on one's mother's grave means to solemnly promise or affirm the truth of something, with the implication that one's mother's grave is being used as a symbol of the seriousness and sincerity of the oath.
  • be tied to (one's) mother's apron strings The idiom "be tied to (one's) mother's apron strings" means to be overly dependent on one's mother or to be unable to function independently without one's mother's support or guidance. It implies that the person lacks autonomy and self-sufficiency.
  • every mother's son (of them) Every mother's son (of them) is an idiomatic expression that describes a group of people who are all included or involved in a situation, regardless of gender. It is used to emphasize that every individual in the group is equally affected or responsible.
  • at your mother's knee The phrase "at your mother's knee" refers to learning something at a young age from one's mother or from a motherly figure. It can also imply being influenced or shaped by one's mother's teachings or guidance.
  • your mother's, wife's, etc. apron strings The idiom "your mother's, wife's, etc. apron strings" refers to being overly dependent on a female figure, typically a mother or wife, for guidance, support, or decision-making in one's life. It implies a lack of independence and autonomy.
  • be tied to mother's apron strings The idiom "be tied to mother's apron strings" means to be overly dependent on one's mother or to be unable to function independently without her guidance or approval.
  • who's she, the cat's mother? This is a British expression used to remind someone not to refer to a woman as "she" or "her" in conversation. It is used as a humorous way to remind someone to address a person by their name rather than just using pronouns.
  • be tied to your mother's apron strings The idiom "be tied to your mother's apron strings" means to be overly dependent on one's mother or to have difficulty functioning independently from her influence or control.
  • every mother's son The idiom "every mother's son" refers to every single person, especially when emphasizing that no one is exempt or excluded.
  • old enough to be someone's father (or mother) This idiom is used to describe someone who is significantly older than another person, often to the point where they could feasibly be their parent.

Similar spelling words for MOTHER

Plural form of MOTHER is MOTHERS

Conjugate verb Mother

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have mothered
you would have mothered
he/she/it would have mothered
we would have mothered
they would have mothered
I would have mother
you would have mother
he/she/it would have mother
we would have mother
they would have mother

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been mothering
you would have been mothering
he/she/it would have been mothering
we would have been mothering
they would have been mothering

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would mother
you would mother
he/she/it would mother
we would mother
they would mother

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be mothering
you would be mothering
he/she/it would be mothering
we would be mothering
they would be mothering

FUTURE

I will mother
you will mother
he/she/it will mother
we will mother
they will mother

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be mothering
you will be mothering
he/she/it will be mothering
we will be mothering
they will be mothering

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have mothered
you will have mothered
he/she/it will have mothered
we will have mothered
they will have mothered

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been mothering
you will have been mothering
he/she/it will have been mothering
we will have been mothering
they will have been mothering

IMPERATIVE

you mother
we let´s mother

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to mother

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was mothering
you were mothering
he/she/it was mothering
we were mothering
they were mothering

PAST PARTICIPLE

mothered

PAST PERFECT

I had mothered
you had mothered
he/she/it had mothered
we had mothered
they had mothered

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been mothering
you had been mothering
he/she/it had been mothering
we had been mothering
they had been mothering

PRESENT

I mother
you mother
he/she/it mothers
we mother
they mother

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am mothering
you are mothering
he/she/it is mothering
we are mothering
they are mothering

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

mothering

PRESENT PERFECT

I have mothered
you have mothered
he/she/it has mothered
we have mothered
they have mothered

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been mothering
you have been mothering
he/she/it has been mothering
we have been mothering
they have been mothering

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it mother

SIMPLE PAST

I mothered
you mothered
he/she/it mothered
we mothered
they mothered

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